This temple is just way too spiritual and beaitiful as what we think...

Parvathamalai, an ancient and mystical hill located in Tamil Nadu, holds immense spiritual significance and is revered by devotees and seekers alike. Known by many names such as Thenkailayam, Kanthamalai, Mallikarjunamalai, Tri Sulagiri, Naviramalai, Parvathagiri, and Sanjeevigiri, this sacred site has been a beacon of divine energy and meditation for millennia. The hill is home to a powerful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped as Mallikarjuna, and his divine consort Shakti, known here as Parvatha Rani, Parvathammal, Sri Bramarambika, or Sri Akilandeswari Amman.

Who is Lord Mallikarjuna?

At the summit of Parvathamalai, a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva stands in unparalleled glory. Unlike other temples, this sacred abode remains open at all times, signifying the uninterrupted presence of divine energy. It is believed that Lord Shiva, upon returning from the Himalayas to Arunachala, stepped upon these hills, marking the site as Annamalaiyar Padam, the footprint of Lord Shiva. Devotees who ascend the hill recite the powerful mantra “Om Namah Shivaya,” drawing an abundance of spiritual bliss and divine power.





Legends and mythology of this hill…

Parvathamalai is steeped in myths and legends that further elevate its sacredness. One of the most fascinating tales links it to the Ramayana. When Lord Hanuman carried the Sanjeevi Hill to Lanka to save Lakshmana, a fragment of the hill is said to have fallen here, forming Parvathamalai. This legend gives rise to the belief that the hill is imbued with healing energies, and many devotees seek relief from ailments by visiting this holy site. The presence of mystical Siddhars, ancient sages with divine wisdom ; further enhances its spiritual aura. It is said that these Siddhars meditate at the temple, their presence hidden from the ordinary eye, but they emerge at midnight to perform sacred rituals and bestow blessings.

The ancient Tamil literary work Malaipadukadam, dating back to the 3rd century CE, mentions King Nannan worshipping at this hill, further attesting to its deep-rooted historical significance.

One of the most distinctive features of the Parvathamalai Temple is the open sanctum. Unlike most temples, where only priests perform rituals, at this sacred site, devotees themselves can enter the inner sanctum, perform abhishekams (ritualistic bathing of the deity), and offer prayers directly to Lord Mallikarjuna. Every full moon, thousands of devotees from a 30-kilometer radius undertake the challenging trek to the temple, seeking divine grace, wisdom, and peace.





Well, let’s talk about the thrilling trek to Parvathamalai..

A pilgrimage to Parvathamalai is not just a spiritual journey but also an adventurous trek that tests one's endurance and devotion. The trek covers approximately 15 kilometers round-trip and takes anywhere between 3 to 5 hours one way, depending on an individual's fitness level. The route consists of multiple terrains, including:

Plains and Steps – The initial phase of the journey.

Rocky Uphill Paths – Requires careful navigation.

Crowbar Path (Kadaparai Padhai) – A challenging vertical climb with iron bars for support.

Ladder Steps (Yeni Padhai) – Metal ladders bolted into the rocks.

Sky Steps (Agaya Padhai) – A narrow and steep section leading directly to the temple.






The journey begins from Thenmathimangalam village, accessible via buses from Polur, Aarni, Tiruvannamalai, and other nearby towns. The towering peak of Parvathamalai can be spotted from a distance, inspiring trekkers to embark on their spiritual adventure. The most challenging section, Idukku Paarai, requires trekkers to navigate a vertical rock passage between two hills, demanding both physical and mental strength.

The hill’s healing properties and Siddhar presence

Parvathamalai is believed to be rich in medicinal herbs, some of which are said to cure even the most severe illnesses. Many pilgrims collect these herbs, believing in their divine healing powers. The hill is also a known abode of mystical Siddhars, who, according to legend, continue to meditate and reside here, harnessing spiritual energies that bless all those who visit.

The Veerabhadrar Temple Trust ensures that devotees are well taken care of by offering free meals to pilgrims and trekkers. Additionally, water sources are available along the trek to keep travellers hydrated.

The Parvathamalai temple, believed to be over 2,000 years old, continues to be a sacred destination for those seeking spiritual enlightenment. The hilltop also features shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Brahmarambika. An ancient water source, Agaya Gangai, is believed to have miraculous healing properties, drawing pilgrims who seek divine intervention for their ailments.






Parvathamalai is more than just a temple or a trek; it is an experience that connects one with the divine, tests perseverance, and grants spiritual fulfilment. Whether one seeks blessings from Lord Mallikarjuna, yearns for wisdom from the Siddhars, or simply wishes to undertake a challenging yet rewarding trek, Parvathamalai offers it all.

The sacred hill stands as a testimony to centuries of devotion, mysticism, and divine grace, calling out to all those who wish to embark on a journey of faith and transformation.

Source / Image Credit : Parvathamalai, Karungali, Printerest, Trawell.in